The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to return to AFCON 2025 action on Saturday evening as they face Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles in their second Group C match. The clash will take place at the Complexe Sportif de Fès stadium in Fes, Morocco.
A victory for Eric Chelle’s men will secure their place in the knockout stage, with both sides entering the match in strong form after winning their opening fixtures.
Nigeria kicked off their campaign with a 2–1 win over Tanzania, thanks to goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman. Tunisia, meanwhile, registered a 3–1 triumph against Uganda.
The Super Eagles will rely on their attacking talents to break down the Tunisian defence. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, yet to find the net in the tournament, will lead the frontline alongside Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, and Samuel Chukwueze. Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi are expected to anchor midfield, potentially partnered by Frank Onyeka, depending on tactical adjustments.
At the back, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi are likely to form the centre-back pairing, supported by Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi on the flanks, while Stanley Nwabali guards the goal.
Tunisia impressed in their first match, and coach Sami Trabelsi is unlikely to make major changes. Elias Achouri, who netted twice against Uganda, remains the main attacking threat.
The midfield trio of captain Ferjani Sassi, Ellyes Skhiri, and Hannibal Mejbri will dictate play, while Ali Maâloul and Dylan Bronn provide defensive stability in front of goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen.
Historically, the teams have met on several occasions in AFCON. Tunisia defeated Nigeria 1–0 in the Round of 16 in 2021, with Youssef Msakni scoring the decisive goal.
In contrast, Nigeria edged Tunisia 1–0 in the third-place play-off at the 2019 edition, courtesy of an early strike from Odion Ighalo.
The Super Eagles come into the game on a strong run, having won six of their last nine matches.
A win on Saturday would not only boost their chances of lifting a first continental title since 2013 but also signal their intent as serious contenders for the tournament.
Predicted Lineups:
Nigeria:
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Akor Adam
Tunisia:
Goalkeeper: Aymen Dahmen
Defenders: Yann Valery, Dylan Bronn, Montassar Talbi, Ali Abdi
Midfielders: Ellyes Skhiri, Ferjani Sassi, Hannibal Mejbri
Forwards: Elias Achouri, Hazem Mastouri, Elias Saad
